Description
These Jalapeño Popper Twists are a deliciously cheesy and spicy appetizer featuring a creamy blend of cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and jalapeños wrapped in flaky puff pastry. Perfect for parties or snack time, they bake up golden and crispy in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced jalapeños, fresh or pickled
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Pastry
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 1 large egg, for egg wash
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, sliced jalapeños, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly until you have a smooth and well-blended spicy cheese mixture.
- Roll and Cut Pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry sheet to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut the pastry into 8 strips, each approximately 2 inches wide to create uniform twists.
- Fill and Seal: Spoon the jalapeño cheese filling onto one half of each pastry strip. Fold the strip lengthwise over the filling, then gently press the edges together to seal and prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
- Shape Twists: Carefully twist each filled strip several times to form a spiral shape, which will create a beautiful, textured twist. Arrange each twist on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
- Apply Egg Wash: Beat the egg in a small bowl, then brush the tops of the twists with the egg wash. This will give the pastry a glossy, golden finish when baked.
- Bake: Bake the twists in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the puff pastry turns golden brown and crisp.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the twists cool slightly. Serve warm to enjoy the gooey, spicy filling at its best.
Notes
- For milder heat, remove seeds from jalapeños before mixing into the filling.
- Use fresh jalapeños for a more vibrant flavor; pickled jalapeños add tanginess.
- Ensure puff pastry is well-chilled before rolling to prevent sticking.
- Can be prepared ahead and chilled before baking; add a few extra minutes to baking time if baking from cold.
- Serve with a side of ranch dressing or sour cream for dipping, if desired.
